Music for all occasions

FAQ

Four chairs, without arms, are all we require. If it is an outdoor event, we also require shelter… even if there’s no rain, the sun can be just as damaging to our instruments.

Do you ever play as a trio?

Yes, sometimes we do. But the reality is that most of our music (and most good music, come to that!) is actually written for Quartet. Having the four instruments creates a fuller, more varied sound. We can scale down to a trio (very handy if money is an issue), but a full Quartet is what you will need if you want to hear well-known music.

How does the quartet dress?

The dress code is normally formal: men in tuxedos / women in black.

Does the Quartet play at events other than weddings?

Yes, we do. We have a range of music to suit every occasion, from Christmas parties to corporate events.

Can I choose which pieces I would like to hear?

Yes, you can choose any piece from our repertoire list, or we can choose the music for you. Most couples like to choose some of the main pieces (for example, entrance music or signing of the register) and leave the rest to us. If you are after a piece that’s not listed, we can obtain an arrangement for you (an additional fee applies).

When does the Quartet play during the wedding ceremony?

Usually, we play for twenty minutes before the ceremony starts as guests arrive, during your walk down the aisle, during the signing of the registry, when you exit, and then for about twenty minutes as guests leave. Some ceremonies also include ring warming rituals, or the offering of communion – these are also good moments for background music.

Does the Quartet play at receptions?

Yes, we do. We can play at the reception venue as guests arrive, during pre-reception drinks, or during the reception itself.

How do you ‘time’ the music so that it fits in with the ceremony? Do you need to attend the wedding rehearsal?

Very simple – we arrive early and speak to your priest or celebrant. They give us a nod or some sort of cue as you arrive, and we start playing the entrance music. They give us cues to begin playing during the signing of the register – and at any other time necessary. We are very experienced at timing our pieces so that they fit into the right ‘slots’ in the ceremony, and we don’t actually need to come to a wedding rehearsal. However, should you have specific directions that require a rehearsal, we are usually able to attend (a rehearsal fee applies in these situations).

What do you need to perform?

We require approximately 3 x 2 meters of level ground space, four (4) chairs without arms & adequate lighting. If the event is being held outdoors, we also require adequate shelter/cover from the elements. Regardless of the weather forecast, we all know Melbourne is notorious for it’s unpredictable weather, so by having us protected from any possible rain and/or direct sunlight we are able to play more comfortably, thus ensuring you get our best possible sound! A large market umbrella is a popular option if a veranda close to the ceremony or a gazebo is not avaialble.

Do you ever play as a trio?

Yes, sometimes we do. But the reality is that most of our music is actually written for Quartet. Having the four instruments creates a fuller, more dynamic sound. We can scale down to a Trio (very handy if money is an issue), but a full Quartet is what you will need if you want to hear well-known music.

Can I choose which pieces I would like to hear?

Yes, you can choose any piece from our repertoire list, or we can choose the music for you. Most couples like to choose some of the main pieces (for example, entrance music or signing of the register) and leave the rest to us. If you are after a piece that’s not listed, we can arrange it especially for you for a small extra fee.

When does the Quartet play during the wedding ceremony?

Usually, we play for 15-20 minutes before the ceremony starts as guests arrive, during your walk down the aisle, during the signing of the registry, when you exit, and then for about 5- 10 minutes as guests leave. Some ceremonies also include a tea ceremony or the offering of communion – these are also good moments for background music.

Does the Quartet play at receptions?

Yes, we do. We can play at the reception venue as guests arrive, during pre-reception drinks, or during the reception itself.

How do you ‘time’ the music so that it fits in with the ceremony? Do you need to attend the wedding rehearsal?

Very simple – we arrive early and speak to your priest or celebrant. They give us a nod or some sort of cue as you arrive, and we start playing the entrance music. They give us cues to begin playing during the signing of the register – and at any other time necessary. We are very experienced at timing our pieces so that they fit into the right ‘slots’ in the ceremony, and we don’t actually need to come to a wedding rehearsal. However, should you have specific directions that require a rehearsal, this can also be arranged (a rehearsal fee applies in these situations).

Do you require amplification?

Amplification is not typically required for church bookings. Amplification is recommended for events with more than 120 guests, however it is not essential. If you are holding a rather large event, we recommend placing at least 2 but preferably 4 microphones on stands. If you like, we can even arrange for additional musicians to perform with us (eg. 6 – 8 players in total). Corresponding fees apply.

What are your meal and break requirements?

Musicians will require a 10-15 minute break every hour if performing over 1 hour – this does not apply to wedding ceremony bookings of up to 120 minutes. A bottle of water is appreciated for ourdoor events. Refreshments are appreciated for bookings that are over 1.5 hours. A meal or adequate finger food is required for bookings of 3 or more hours.

What hapensif we need to change venues due to wet weather on the day?

Please contact Simone as soon as you have decided to envoke your wet weather option. Usually this is at least 3 hours prior to your event start time and ideally a location very close to your original venue. Please note that the booking time & duration will need to remain the same.

What happens if my event runs over time?

We always recommend booking for the maximum amount of time you require. A booking of 60 – 75 mins is OK if you are expecting a particularly quick ceremony and know for certain that you will be on time. For peace of mind however, it is usually safest to book for 90 minutes. For catholic weddings that include Offetory & Holy Communion, we recommend a booking of 100 – 120 minutes.

How do we book the Animata String Quartet?

Step 1: Use the online Enquiry Form from our Rates page or call Simone on 0458 479 446